19. March 2026

𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆: 𝗔 𝗟𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘆

In a previous post, ‘Why you are unique’, we explored the scientific reality that each of us is profoundly unique. Our genetic code, brain wiring, and fingerprints are as distinct as a snowflake. This is not just a biological fact, as the science of the human microbiome offers an even more personal perspective. It shows us that our inner ecosystem is distinct and continuously shaped by our life experiences.

As leaders, we too have an "inner ecosystem," our team culture. Just as each microbiome influences an individual's health, each team's unique culture shapes its collective performance and well-being.

My understanding of this was profoundly changed by a cyber incident that occurred during the pandemic. I was mentally and physically exhausted from the challenges of leading a team through months of lockdown. My body had finally said, "It's enough. You have to rest," and I was unable to get out of bed with a severe migraine.

When a call came in about the incident, I had to say no, and it felt like the one time my team needed me, I was not able to be there for them. I went back to looking after myself until a plea for help came from a trusted colleague. This was something I couldn't say no to. This individual and I had supported one another through previous major incidents, had looked after one another and had become true friends. The feeling of being needed by someone I cared for was a powerful motivation.

I realised that while my team had been doing well over the preceding months, I had forgotten my own well-being. While I made a huge effort to be there for them during times of intense work, it was not always because I needed to work. It was also to be there for them, to ensure they had breaks and support when they went above and beyond what was expected of them.

My personal crisis became a powerful lesson in empathy. By being on the receiving end of my team's compassion, having them check on me and step in when I needed support, I learned that leadership isn't just about what you do for others, but about allowing them to do for you.

The cyber incident didn't just teach me about resilience in the face of a crisis, it showed me the true strength that comes from a team that looks after its leaders as much as its leaders look after them. It is about building a culture where trust and mutual support are the norm, not the exception.

How has your unique journey shaped the way you lead and build your team's culture?